A Stockton neighbour had good reason to accept the latest sweeping social media challenges to raise money for charity.

Having lived next door to Patricia Greg for the past 11 years, Katrina Rollinson has seen first hand the devastating effect that motor neurone disease can have on an individual and their family.

The 43-year-old was nominated by friends to take part in the ice bucket challenge, which started with the aim of raising awareness for MND, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

After being nominated by someone in Ireland, Katrina decided to do the challenge for her neighbour, who was diagnosed with the disease almost four years ago at the age of 74. She also now suffers with frontotemporal dementia.

Unable to walk or talk, with the only communication being a thumbs up or down, Patricia’s partner of 32 years, John, has since cared for Patricia full time with the much appreciated help of family and close friends.

Katrina completed the challenge with Patricia’s grandson, Josh Greg, who had also been nominated by friends.

Surrounded by family and friends, the pair braved the icy drenching and nominated others.

John, 74, said: “I think what Katrina and Josh have done is wonderful to try and raise awareness of the disease.

“It affects different people in different ways but Patricia always has a smile on her face.”

All proceeds raised during the challenge will be donated directly to the Teesside branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Patricia’s daughter in law, Lorraine Irish, 45, who has been nominated by her son Josh said: “I think it is a lovely thing to do.

“Everyone knows about other diseases such as cancer but nobody really knows about motor neurone disease.”

Katrina said: “I knew it would be cold but I’m pleased that I have done the challenge for such a good cause.

“John goes about helping everyone else so this was my way of giving something back and helping him. He is a neighbour in a million.”

Teesside celebrities are also taking part in the charity craze, which has been traced back to the family of a baseball player who was diagnosed with the disease.